Since an early period in the development of California Stephen W. Pilcher has resided within the borders of the Golden state, and is now an esteemed resident of Sacramento county. He is a native of Wisconsin, born near Milwaukee, June 10, 1848, a son of William and Mary (Scott) Pilcher, the former a native of England and the latter of Connecticut, and both are now deceased. In 1863 the family home was established in Central Iowa, where the following winter was spent, and they then took up their abode in Walla Walla, Washington, where both Mr. and mrs. Pilcher spent the remainder of their lives.

Stephen W. Pilcher accompanied his parents on their various removals during his youth, and for several years was a resident of Washington and adjoining states and British Columbia, the major portion of that time being spent in packing merchandise to the miners. He also assisted in the construction of the first steamboat on the Clark's Fork of the Columbia river. In 1868 he came to California, his first work in this state being in the railroad service, subsequently becoming an employe in the capacity of a conductor on what is now the Southern Pacific Railroad, at that time known as the Central Pacific, his run being between Sacramento and Truckee. Five years were spent in that capacity, and on the expiration of that period, in the fall of 1875, Mr. Pilcher came to the ranch which he now owns and occupies in the northern part of Sacramento county. His first purchase of land consisted of three hundred and twenty acres, to which he has since added as the years have passed by and prosperity has rewarded his efforts until the place now consists of six hundred and forty acres, of which he is a half owner. This valuable ranch is located five miles from Folsom, and is devoted to general agricultural pursuits. He is a thorough and practical agriculturist, and his sterling characteristics and honorable business methods have won for him the respect and esteem of all with whom he has had business or social relations. Although independent in his political views, he gives his preference to the Republican party, is a progressive and public-spirited citizen, and for several years has served as a trustee of the Roberts school district.

Mr. Pilcher married Miss Maggie Birmingham, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and they became the parents of five children: Ella G., a resident of Seattle, Washington; William H., George E. and Albert B., residents of Sacramento county; and Lillie A., the wife of Don Burrows, also of Seattle. Mr. Pilcher subsequently married Mrs. Jennie Sherry, of Sacramento county. He is a member of Roseville Grange, P. of H. He has always led a useful, upright life, and all who know him entertain for him a deep and sincere regard.

Source: History of the New California - Its Resources and People, Volume II